UCL Reconstruction (Tommy John Surgery)

UCL reconstruction, commonly known as Tommy John surgery, restores elbow stability and function for athletes experiencing ulnar collateral ligament tears. Our fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons use advanced surgical techniques and comprehensive rehabilitation programs to help you return to your sport stronger than before.

Expert elbow care from diagnosis to full recovery—all under one roof.

Find a Shoulder & Elbow Specialist Schedule Your Consultation

Schedule Your Elbow Evaluation

Don't let elbow pain sideline your athletic goals. Our orthopedic specialists are ready to create your personalized treatment plan.
(947) 243-2604

Your Treatment Options for UCL Reconstruction (Tommy John Surgery)

At Synergy Health Partners, our board-certified orthopedic surgeons specialize in both non-surgical and surgical treatments for UCL injuries. We'll work with you to develop the most effective treatment plan based on your injury severity, activity level, and recovery goals.
  • Fellowship-trained sports medicine specialists with extensive UCL reconstruction experience
  • Advanced arthroscopic and open surgical techniques for optimal outcomes
  • Comprehensive rehabilitation programs with our in-house physical therapists
  • Proven return-to-sport protocols for athletes at all levels

Non-Surgical Treatments

Start With the Least-Invasive Options

Most patients improve without surgery. Our team takes a conservative-first approach with treatments designed to reduce pain, improve strength, and prevent future flare-ups.

Non-Surgical Shoulder & Elbow Treatments

  • Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Our sports physical therapists develop targeted strengthening programs to improve elbow stability and mechanics. Many partial UCL tears can heal with proper rehabilitation and activity modification.
    • Progressive strengthening exercises for forearm and shoulder stability
    • Biomechanical analysis and throwing mechanics correction
  • Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy PRP injections use your body's own healing factors to promote tissue regeneration in the damaged UCL. This treatment can be effective for partial tears and chronic UCL insufficiency.
    • Ultrasound-guided injection for precise placement
    • Combined with structured rehabilitation program
  • Activity Modification and Bracing Strategic rest periods and protective bracing allow natural healing while maintaining fitness. Our team creates sport-specific activity modifications to prevent further injury.
    • Elbow bracing for stability during activity
    • Gradual return-to-activity protocols
  • Anti-Inflammatory Treatments Targeted injection therapy and oral medications help reduce inflammation and pain associated with UCL injuries. These treatments are often combined with other conservative approaches.
    • Corticosteroid injections for acute inflammation
    • NSAIDs and other anti-inflammatory medications
Star
Many athletes with partial UCL tears experience significant improvement within 8-12 weeks of conservative treatment, avoiding the need for surgery.

Surgical Options

If Surgery is Right for You

Procedures are determined after evaluation—this list is for education only.
UCL Reconstruction (Tommy John Surgery)

Watch how our orthopedic surgeons perform UCL reconstruction using advanced arthroscopic techniques

Surgical Shoulder & Elbow Procedures

  • UCL Reconstruction (Tommy John Surgery) The gold standard surgical treatment for complete UCL tears, using a tendon graft (typically from the forearm or hamstring) to reconstruct the damaged ligament. Our surgeons use both traditional and modified techniques based on your specific anatomy and needs.
  • UCL Repair with Internal Bracing For acute UCL tears with good tissue quality, direct repair with internal bracing provides faster recovery times. This newer technique uses a strong synthetic tape to augment the repaired ligament, allowing earlier return to activity.
  • Hybrid UCL Reconstruction Combines elements of traditional reconstruction with repair techniques for optimal outcomes. This approach preserves native UCL tissue when possible while reinforcing with graft material for maximum stability.
Star
Over 85% of our UCL reconstruction patients successfully return to their previous level of competition, with many reporting improved performance.

What to Expect with UCL Reconstruction

1

Comprehensive Evaluation

Detailed physical examination, MRI imaging, and discussion of your athletic goals to determine the best treatment approach for your specific UCL injury.

2

Surgical Procedure

Outpatient surgery typically lasting 60-90 minutes, performed at our state-of-the-art ambulatory surgery center with advanced anesthesia and pain management.

3

Early Recovery Phase

Initial 2-3 weeks focus on pain management and gentle range of motion exercises while protecting the reconstruction with a hinged elbow brace.

4

Progressive Rehabilitation

12-16 week structured physical therapy program with our sports therapists, gradually progressing from basic movements to sport-specific activities.

5

Return to Sport

Gradual return to throwing activities begins around 4-6 months post-surgery, with most athletes returning to full competition within 12-18 months.

Shoulder & Elbow Care Near Me

Auto Accident Care

Troy

Directions
5107 Rochester Rd.,Troy. MI 48085 • (855) 750-5757
Auto Accident Care

Sterling Heights

Directions
35735 Mound Rd, Sterling Heights, MI 48310 • (586) 261-1960
Surgical Centers

Synergy Surgery Center

Directions
5504 E. 12 Mile Road, Warren, MI 48071 • (586) 838-2035
Full-Service Clinics

Southfield

Directions
29275 Northwestern Hwy, #207, Southfield, MI 48034 • (855) 750-5757
Auto Accident Care

Port Huron

Directions
600 Fort St #100, Port Huron, MI 48060 • (810) 987-9871
Surgical Centers

Genesys
Surgery Center

Directions
35735 Mound Rd, Sterling Heights, MI 48310 • (855) 750-5757
Auto Accident Care

Livonia

Directions
36622 Five Mile Rd, Suite 101, Livonia, MI 48154 • (855) 750-5757
Book Appointment

PROVEN OUTCOMES

Why Choose Synergy?

Our integrated approach combines fellowship-trained surgeons, advanced techniques, and comprehensive rehabilitation under one roof for optimal UCL reconstruction outcomes.
0 %

Return to Competition Rate

(18 Months)

0 %

Patient Satisfaction

(1 Year)

0 mo

Average Return Time

(Competitive Athletes)

Data Source: CODE Technology PRO Surveys (2025).